Comblain-La-Tour 1965
In the summer of 1965, the John Coltrane Quartet delivered a remarkable performance at the Comblain-la-Tour Jazz Festival in Belgium. This ensemble—comprising John Coltrane on soprano saxophone, McCoy Tyner on piano, Jimmy Garrison on bass, and Elvin Jones on drums—was at the pinnacle of its creative journey.
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The setlist for this concert included:
- Vigil: An intense piece showcasing Coltrane’s improvisational prowess.
- Naima: A heartfelt ballad named after Coltrane’s first wife, offering a serene contrast to the more vigorous numbers.
- My Favorite Things: Coltrane’s innovative rendition of this classic show tune had become a staple in his performances, allowing him to explore modal improvisation deeply.
The Comblain-la-Tour Jazz Festival, established in 1959, was among Europe’s premier jazz events, attracting top-tier talent from around the globe. Coltrane’s appearance in 1965 was a testament to the festival’s prestige and his status as a leading figure in the jazz world.
This particular performance has been immortalized through various recordings and is available for viewing online, offering jazz enthusiasts a glimpse into the quartet’s dynamic interplay and Coltrane’s visionary artistry.
Video Credit: Vince Cho – Don’t forget to like and subscribe to his YouTube channel for more great video content!
Share Your Thoughts
The John Coltrane Quartet’s 1965 performance of “My Favorite Things” in Comblain-La-Tour captures the essence of a transformative period in jazz history. What do you think about Coltrane’s improvisational approach and the quartet’s interplay during this live rendition? How does it compare to the studio recording?
Share your thoughts on this iconic performance and its place in the evolution of jazz. We’d love to hear your insights in the comments below!